Kohl Children's Museum

Definitely worth the drive. Not even that far. About 20-25 minutes from downtown. I like it much better than Chicago Children's Museum. Better contained, cleaner and much better exhibits. Try to avoid weekends and days when most schools are off. Can get very crowded. You can go on their website, but doesn't do it justice. my daughter had her birthday party there 2 years in a row and we are big supporters.

1 mom found this helpful

We've taken our son there at least half a dozen times. It's awesome. He LOVES going there. And we also live in Chicago. There's free parking and it's really not far at all. We live on the north side, and it takes the same amount of time to get downtown. Plus the free parking makes it much cheaper than trying to go down to Navy Pier and park for the Chicago Children's museum.
Another tip: it can be crowded in the mornings, but around lunch/naptime it starts to clear out...

I've been to a few Children's Museums and this one by far is my favorite one. Everything is well organized, clean, lots of options and perfect for a 3 year old. One thing is that it does get a little crowded but it's worth it. My daughter has been there three times and has a blast each time. I live in the city too but it's not too bad of a drive. Hope you get a chance to go.

We like the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum better - much less chaotic, and also right along the lake and near the zoo. It's just a better location and experience for the effort / distance.

It's a good day out plus the garden area is opening in Summer too. I'm sure you'll enjoy it there.